title: Exploring the social and community context of African American adolescents' HIV vulnerability.
abstract: There is an increasing call for HIV prevention programs that target social determinants of HIV. The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences and perceptions of 12 African American adolescents to identify important social and community targets for HIV prevention. We used photovoice methodology to engage adolescents in a critical analysis of their experiences to arrive at a deeper understanding of the social determinants of HIV and determine specific action steps to reduce HIV risk. Analyses revealed a variety of social and environmental factors that affect the lives of African American adolescents by creating conditions that put them at greater risk for HIV. Study findings support mobilizing community action through raising awareness and advocating for increased neighborhood resources and institutional support. We conclude with research and practice implications for community-relevant HIV prevention among African American youth.
authors.affiliation: 1University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA.
authors.forename: Briana A
authors.initials: BA
authors.lastname: Woods-Jaeger
authors.forename: Alicia
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Sparks
authors.forename: Kea
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Turner
authors.forename: Turquoise
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Griffith
authors.forename: Melvin
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Jackson
authors.forename: Alexandra F
authors.initials: AF
authors.lastname: Lightfoot
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D001741:Black or African American / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010781:Photography; D010865:Pilot Projects; D000297:Psychology, Adolescent; D036301:Qualitative Research; D035862:Vulnerable Populations / Q000523:psychology*
keywords: African Americans; HIV/AIDS prevention; adolescents / youth; health, determinants of; social issues